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Mastering the Layered Look

By

Rita Konig

Oct. 5, 2012 5:50 p.m. ET

UNLESS A ROOM is following a minimalist mantra, which mine never do, I feel it must have layers. The upholstered furniture is the first layer, which I always think of as the canvas on which to paint. Then comes the fun part: vintage textiles, large pillows, pictures on the walls, pretty lampshades, hanging candelabras and chunky vases filled with fresh flowers. These are the elements that make a space feel like one you want to linger in.

Last week in London I saw Los Angeles decorator Kathryn Ireland, who is a master of the...